Jason Cook

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 08:05:13 -0400 last edited: Sun, 21 May 2023 09:22:25 -0400

jason@hub.inktada.com

Perfection! Configuration for material is dialed in. This material is Carbon Fiber PEKK. I thought carbon fiber polycarbonate was strong until using this material. This material will save me countless hours because I can use it rather than traditional carbon fiber layups with high temperature epoxy.

3D Printer Customization 3D-Printing

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 10:18:23 -0400

FourOh-LLC

fouroh-llc@hubzilla.factoryfouroh.net

Looks very nice, I cannot imagine all you had to do to get this done..

This is just a footnote: I do not like the way 3D printing forms the holes in the XY - the rings constantly separate from the rest of the body. In the Z they are built by layers and they are integrated better. So I am trying to avoid holes, instead I am using polygons - hexagons maybe rotated so they print fine in the Z without any support.

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 07:47:47 -0400

Jason Cook

jason@hub.inktada.com

Learned:
PEKK will clog the nozzle if you keep the heat on and don't move filament, even short duration like 5 to 10 minutes. You also want the nozzle to cool rapidly once the hotend is OFF after a print for the same reason. Since I have a copper heat block, it holds heat for a long time. I adjusted my end script to turn the blower fan on max at end of print job. That fixed issues.

When I clogged the nozzle, I had to research how to unclog as it was completely blocked. The answer: You remove the nozzle, and heat it with a blowtorch until the metal is redhot. You then drop it in a glass of water. This shatters what is left of the PEKK (and char) and you can then pick away the pieces and your nozzle is as good as new. In my case, the entire char remains came out as a single segment. Be aware that blowtorch can remove characteristics of hardened steel nozzles. Hopefully I don't have to do this often.

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 07:55:54 -0400

FourOh-LLC

fouroh-llc@hubzilla.factoryfouroh.net

Adding to this: Acetone does not resolve any of the PLA+ stuff I am using, do not bother trying. I think Acetone deals with the straightforward stuff, enhanced PLA is different. I am thinking to throw my clogged brass nozzles into the oven at 375 F the next time I reheat a frozen pizza, and see if the stuff drips out.